I live permanently in the south of France and have been here for two years running a Chambres D’Hotes (that’s a B&B in English). One of the hardest things I have found is understanding the French culture and what makes the French, well, French.
A quick example, why to the French say Bonjour when they enter a shop and who are they saying it to? I thought, like most Brits probably, that it was a general greeting to all in the shop, well no it’s not, it’s aimed at the shop owner. If the owner is not present then the staff and other shoppers may say bonjour back on behalf of the owner. Failure to say bonjour is a bit of an insult and may lead to less than best service.
How did I find this out, well I bought a book called 60 Million Frenchmen Can’t be Wrong. Written by two North American (French speaking Canadians) who lived in France (Paris) for two years researching the book it gives a great insight in to the French and their customs and their culture. I have to say that it’s a little gem and you can buy it from Amazon.
Apart from customs it gives a great insight in to things like education, the family, politics etc. So if you are thinking of moving to France then buy this book (it’s in English). You wouldn’t believe how different we are.
May I say that I have no connection in any way with this book or it’s authors and receive no income from it. It’s just a really good book.
Hi - yes I agree! I too live in France and have done so now for nearly 3 years. I found this book a bit heavy going but on the whole a really interesting insight in to what make the French tick. I does amaze me how two cultures that have rubbed shoulders for so long through out history can still be quite so different, both in mind-set and character... not complaining mind you. We love it here - live in the Languedoc. P.S. If you fancy a usful site all about this lovely region chack out Creme de Languedoc
Hi We have been looking at France with the relatively low house prices but have found it very difficult with myself not being allowed to drive so would like to be near to a town or large village. But find when we like a place the house prices there are too high. Any adice would be appreciated.
House prices in the South of France are not cheap, esp in towns. Aound 250,000€ seems the norm here (Narbonne) for a 3 bedroom new build in/close to town. In the centre of France it is much cheaper but very cold in winter. Richard France in Focus
Thanks although we naturally cannot afford the south so have been looking else where but it is becoming more and more difficult with the transport difficulties. I agree about France becoming more and more English/American. As mentioned so many people of all ages are living in areas where one would never dream of finding any foreigners. What for it...I have known France since 1956! So can remember, what I call the real France.
The Loire Valley is beautiful and, as yet, the house prices are still pretty manageable. Transport links are good with Ryanair flying direct from Stansted to Tours or, if you wanted to drive, it's motorway most of the way from Le Havre, with more motorway further into the region currently being constructed.
For a start on looking for properties, you could try Loire Valley Homes - when we made an enquiry with this English agent, she was extremely helpful and was able to talk us through what the area has to offer.
Hi I am French but I lived some years in Ireland and England. Buying such a book is a good idea in order not to get things wrong without knowing it.
Some areas are "taken over" by foreign people and it can annoy French people because they can not afford accomodation anymore (e.g. Brittany) but having english speaking people around can help you to get tips on the local life and not feel alone. They are still places in France that can be a good investment. Many places are served with Ryanair and other low costs companies. In Limousin, you can find nices cottages for as low as 30000euros like the one my mother is selling. Prices in France and especially Limousin are going up and there is still growth potential.
philkodak@oceanfree.net I have pictures of the cottages.
